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International Phone Number Formats: Best Guide with Examples

Updated: Jun 26

International Phone Number Formats: Best Guide with Examples
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Introduction


International Phone Number Formats follow the global E.164 standard defined by the International Telecommunication Union to ensure calls and messages reach the correct number worldwide. Knowing how to write international phone numbers, how to include country code in phone number, or how to convert US phone number to international format is essential for travel, business, and app verification. Users often ask how to write a US phone number with country code, how to enter phone number with country code, or what is my mobile phone number in international format. This guide covers how to write your phone number with country code, how to type phone number with country code, and the correct global phone number format used across platforms.


What Is an International Phone Number Format?


An international phone number format is the standard way to write phone numbers so they work across countries without confusion. It includes the plus sign (+), country code, area code, and local number. Based on the E.164 standard, this format helps ensure global calls and messages are delivered correctly. If you’ve ever wondered how to write an international phone number, how to write a US phone number in international format, or how to include country code in phone number, this format provides the answer.


It also helps when you need to convert US phone number to international format, type phone number with country code, or check what is my mobile phone number in international format.

International Phone Number Formats of Different Countries


Below are examples of how to write international phone numbers with country code for different countries. These follow the E.164 international phone number format and are useful when you need to convert a number or type phone number with country code correctly in any form, CRM, or app.

Country

Format Example

Format Structure

United States (US)

+1 415 555 2671

+1 (Area Code) (Phone Number)

United Kingdom (UK)

+44 20 7946 0123

+44 (Area Code without 0) (Phone Number)

India

+91 98765 43210

+91 (Mobile Number)

Australia

+61 2 9876 5432

+61 (Area Code without 0) (Phone Number)

Germany

+49 30 123456

+49 (Area Code without 0) (Phone Number)

UAE

+971 50 123 4567

+971 (Network Code) (Phone Number)

South Africa

+27 10 123 4567

+27 (Area Code) (Phone Number)

Canada

+1 416 555 7890

+1 (Area Code) (Phone Number)

Singapore

+65 9123 4567

+65 (Phone Number)

Philippines

+63 917 123 4567

+63 (Network Code) (Phone Number)


Why Do International Phone Number Formats Matter?


Writing a phone number in international format is more than just adding a country code. It’s a critical step to ensure your number works globally, whether you're filling out forms, sending messages, or managing customer contacts. If you've ever wondered how to write phone number with country code or why global phone number format is required, here’s why it matters:


  1. Ensures Global Reach: Correct international phone number formats allow your calls and messages to connect across countries without failure.


  2. Prevents Delivery Errors: When you write phone number with country code or type phone number with country code correctly, it avoids message failures and missed calls.


  3. Required for Online Forms and Apps: Many platforms require you to enter phone number with country code for verification, especially in international systems.


  4. Supports CRM and Messaging Tools: Tools like WhatsApp, SMS platforms, and CRMs recognize only valid phone number in international format.


  5. Simplifies Cross-Border Communication: Knowing how to write your phone number with country code or how to convert US phone number to international format helps contacts reach you from any country.


Components of an International Phone Number


Understanding the structure of an international phone number helps ensure it works correctly on global platforms. Whether you're learning how to write an international phone number or figuring out how to include country code in a phone number, the format typically follows these key components:


1. Plus Sign (+)

Always begins the number and tells the system you're dialing internationally. Replace it with your country’s exit code if needed (e.g., 00 or 011).


2. Country Code

A unique number assigned to each country. For example, the US and Canada use 1, the UK uses 44, and India uses 91.


3. Area Code or Network Code

This part identifies a specific region, city, or mobile network within the country. Leading zeros (if any) are removed in international format.


4. Local Subscriber Number

The remaining digits of the phone number. This part connects you to the specific person or business.


This structure follows the E.164 international phone number format and is required when you write phone numbers with country code in forms, CRMs, or apps like WhatsApp.


How to Format Phone Numbers Internationally for Different Countries?


Formatting your phone number correctly for international use is important when filling out online forms, using messaging apps, or managing contacts in global CRMs. Each country follows a specific structure based on the E.164 standard, and writing your number the right way helps avoid delivery issues and connection errors. Below are clear instructions for formatting phone numbers with country codes across several commonly used regions.


United States (US)


  • Local Format: (415) 555-2671

  • International Format: +1 415 555 2671

  • Steps:

    1. Start with +1

    2. Add the 3-digit area code and 7-digit number

    3. Do not remove any digits

  • You can also use WhatsApp Number Generator to create virtual US Numbers.


United Kingdom (UK)


  • Local Format: 020 7946 0123

  • International Format: +44 20 7946 0123

  • Steps:

    1. Begin with +44

    2. Remove the starting 0

    3. Write the full number

  • You can also use WhatsApp Number Generator to create virtual UK Numbers.


India


  • Local Format: 098765 43210

  • International Format: +91 98765 43210

  • Steps:

    1. Use +91

    2. Remove the leading 0

    3. Enter the 10-digit mobile number


Australia


  • Local Format: (02) 9876 5432

  • International Format: +61 2 9876 5432

  • Steps:

    1. Use +61 as the prefix

    2. Drop the initial 0 from the area code

    3. Add the rest of the number


Canada


  • Local Format: (416) 555-7890

  • International Format: +1 416 555 7890

  • Steps:

    1. Begin with +1

    2. Add the area code and number as is

    3. No need to adjust formatting


Germany


  • Local Format: 030 123456

  • International Format: +49 30 123456

  • Steps:

    1. Add +49

    2. Remove the starting 0

    3. Keep the rest of the number unchanged


UAE


  • Local Format: 050 123 4567

  • International Format: +971 50 123 4567

  • Steps:

    1. Start with +971

    2. Remove the 0

    3. Add the remaining mobile number


South Africa


  • Local Format: 010 123 4567

  • International Format: +27 10 123 4567

  • Steps:

    1. Use +27

    2. Exclude the initial 0

    3. Enter the full number


Understanding the E.164 Format Standard


The E.164 international phone number format is the most widely accepted global standard for writing phone numbers. It ensures that numbers are formatted for global communication, routing, and validation across countries.


What It Is?


  • E.164 is a numbering format developed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

  • It includes the plus sign (+), the country code, and a national number.

  • It avoids symbols, punctuation, and local formatting characters.


How It Applies Globally?


  • Used by telecom systems, messaging platforms, and CRMs worldwide.

  • Required when entering phone numbers with country code in international forms.

  • Platforms like WhatsApp and SMS services rely on this format for message delivery.


Format Structure and Limitations


  • Begins with a plus sign (+)

  • Followed by up to 15 digits

  • Does not allow dashes, brackets, or spaces in its strictest form

  • Example: +14155552671 (US), +919876543210 (India)


Formatting Guidelines for International Business Use


Businesses that communicate globally must format phone numbers correctly to ensure deliverability and automation.


Using Numbers in CRMs, Forms, Websites


  • Always include the country code when saving phone numbers in databases.

  • Use the international format with a plus sign and no special symbols.

  • Example: Use +61 2 9876 5432 instead of (02) 9876-5432.


Formatting Rules for Databases


  • Store numbers in E.164 format for consistency and compatibility.

  • Avoid local formats with leading 0s or brackets.

  • Ensure each record uses the same structure to improve syncing with APIs and tools.


Common Mistakes in International Phone Formatting


Incorrect formatting can lead to errors in customer communication and automation failures.


Leaving Local Prefixes

  • Do not include the leading 0 from local phone numbers when writing them internationally.

  • Example: 01234 567890 (UK) should become +44 1234 567890.


Misusing Symbols

  • Avoid using parentheses, hyphens, slashes, or dots.

  • Correct: +1 123 456 7890

  • Incorrect: (123)-456/7890


Wrong Spacing

  • Inconsistent spacing can confuse systems.

  • Use single spaces between country code, area code, and local number.

  • Avoid extra or irregular gaps.


Best Practices for Writing Phone Numbers Globally


Using a consistent international phone number format improves reliability across tools and platforms.


Style Consistency


  • Use the same structure across your website, emails, apps, and CRM.

  • Always include the plus sign and correct country code.

  • Follow the format: +Country Code Area Code Local Number


Avoiding Confusion


  • Don’t mix local and international formats in the same list.

  • Clearly indicate if a number is international by using the plus sign.

  • Review formatting when importing or exporting data to avoid corrupt numbers.:n


Bonus Tip: Check WhatsApp Number Online using Google Chrome Extension


To check if a number is on WhatsApp, you can use a Chrome extension like WA Filter. This WhatsApp number checker and WhatsApp number filter tool allows you to verify phone numbers quickly and efficiently. With WA Filter, you can perform bulk checks, making it a reliable WhatsApp number lookup tool to filter, check, and verify phone numbers registered on WhatsApp. Follow these steps to use WhatsApp Number Verifier:


Step 1: Download the Extension and Activate it:

Visit the WA-Filter website, click "Get Started", and select "Add to Chrome". Confirm the installation of WA Filter, then pin the extension to your browser’s toolbar for easy access. Lastly, login to WhatsApp Web.


Visit the WA-Filter website, click "Get Started", and select "Add to Chrome". Confirm the installation of WA Filter, then pin the extension to your browser’s toolbar for easy access. Lastly, login to WhatsApp Web.

Step 2: Manual Contact Filtering: 

Open the extension, enter phone numbers manually, and click "Start Filter". A report of valid and invalid numbers will be downloaded automatically.


Step 2: Manual Contact Filtering: 

Open the extension, enter phone numbers manually, and click "Start Filter".

A report of valid and invalid numbers will be downloaded automatically.

Step 3: Filter by Uploading Excel: 

Import your contacts using a CSV file, click on extract number option then select the relevant sheet and column and click "Start Filter". The report will be downloaded after processing.


Import your contacts using a CSV file

click on extract number option then select the relevant sheet and column and click "Start Filter"
The report will be downloaded after processing.

Conclusion


Mastering international phone number formats is essential when you're dialing across borders or saving contacts for global communication. Whether you’re trying to convert a US phone number to international format, include the country code properly, or type your mobile number with the correct prefix, following the global phone number format avoids confusion and failed messages. Always write your phone number with the country code, starting with a plus sign (+), followed by the country and area codes. From personal use to CRM data entry, knowing how to write international phone numbers helps you stay connected anywhere in the world.


FAQ: International Phone Number Formats


How do I write my phone number with country code for international use?

To write your phone number with country code in the correct international format, start with a plus sign (+), followed by the country code, area code (if needed), and then the local number. Avoid using brackets, dashes, or symbols. For example, to convert a US number to international format, write it as +1 415 555 2671. If you're unsure how to write a US phone number with country code or how to enter your mobile number internationally, follow the global phone number format used across apps and platforms. International Phone Number Formats ensure your number is understood globally and accepted across all verification systems. Using proper International Phone Number Formats helps avoid delivery errors and improves contact accuracy.

What is the correct international phone number format for the US?

The correct international phone number format for the US follows the E.164 standard. To format a US phone number for international use, start with a plus sign (+), followed by the country code 1, then the three-digit area code, and the seven-digit local number. For example, (415) 555-2671 becomes +1 415 555 2671. This is the standard phone number with country code used when calling or texting the US from abroad. International Phone Number Formats like this help ensure smooth communication across platforms. Using accurate International Phone Number Formats is essential when you convert a US phone number to international format or enter it in online forms and global messaging apps.

How can I convert a local phone number to international format?

To convert a local phone number to international format, begin by removing any leading zero or special characters, then add the correct country code in front of the number. The format should follow this structure: + [country code] [area code] [local number]. For example, an Indian phone number would become +91 22 12345678. International Phone Number Formats are designed to standardize numbers globally, ensuring compatibility across apps, websites, and CRM tools. Using proper International Phone Number Formats also avoids delivery issues when entering a phone number with country code into forms or messaging platforms.

Why is the E.164 format important for global phone number validation?

The E.164 format is important for global phone number validation because it creates a consistent and reliable way to write numbers across countries. It ensures every phone number with country code can be accurately routed through telecom networks and digital platforms. Without E.164, different local formats could cause errors, failed SMS delivery, or misdialed calls. This structure is the backbone of modern International Phone Number Formats and is required by most CRMs, messaging apps, and web forms. Following proper International Phone Number Formats based on E.164 helps maintain accuracy and compatibility in global communication.

How do I type a phone number with country code on forms or apps?

To type a phone number with country code on forms or apps, begin with the plus sign (+), then enter the country code, followed by the full local number without any symbols or spaces. For example, if you're entering an Indian number, you would type it as +91 9876543210. Most platforms, including messaging apps and verification systems, require International Phone Number Formats like this to process inputs correctly. Using the right International Phone Number Formats ensures your number is accepted and functions as expected in global apps and digital forms.

What mistakes should I avoid when writing a phone number in international format?

When writing or dialing a phone number in international format, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that may prevent your call or message from going through. The key is to follow the E.164 standard, which serves as the foundation for accurate and reliable International Phone Number Formats. Using correct International Phone Number Formats ensures that your phone number with country code works seamlessly across global networks and digital platforms.




 
 
 

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